The Gateway of India: a symbol of independence

How did this triumphal arch, facing the harbour and built in honour of King George V, Emperor of India, became the symbol of independence?

The true symbol of the city, the Gateway of India is a yellow basalt triumphal arch, erected between 1915 and 1942 in honour of the visit of King and Emperor of India, George V and his wife Queen Mary in 1911. This was the date on which Gandhi also began his campaign of non-violence for independence.

After independence was declared, the last British troops to leave the country marched through the gateway in 1948, making it henceforth a symbol of Indian freedom. At a height of 26 metres, it was built in the style of the 16th century Gujarati (Indo-Islamic architecture). Nearby, ferries leave for Elephanta Island, known for its beautiful temples carved into the rock.

The Gateway of India is also the starting point for a walk in the vibrant Colaba. There you can find many shops, restaurants, and old cafés like Café Leopold, which opened in 1871.